The Experience

At the picturesque top of the Grand Old Duke of York’s hill is an L-shaped bar of flagstones and rose walls, carved panelling and big fires. On the other side of the bar you’ll find a dapper wine-themed restaurant where chalkboards and menus reflect the freshest local ingredients, try slow cooked Yorkshire beef feather-blade mash with root vegetables and a bourguignon sauce. Puddings are tempting too, why resist sunken ‘gooey’ chocolate cake? Set lunches, early birds and Sunday roasts are ever popular, and there are three private dining rooms (the Ox Barn seats 85) – great for family celebrations and weddings. No need to drive home: the delightfully quirky rooms in the old farmworkers’ cottages have been renovated in contemporary, country-house style. Expect original quarry-tile floors, warmly painted walls, beams and revamped bathrooms. The Studio, reached via its own outside staircase, is big and bright. Long views across the valley are stunning; in summer, flowers burst from stone troughs. Dog-friendly peacefulness 20 minutes outside York.

Reviews

What a special find. . .
Stunning views from a very cosy Rose Cottage with warms fires, delicious food and wine! Best nights sleep in a long time and a lovely breakfast to depart on.... one night definitely not enough. We will be back with more time to enjoy your hospitality and surroundings!
Thank you Sasha and Mike

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Olivia, HampshireMar 2018

We spent three lovely days in the Green Room. Durham Ox is an emblem of hospitality at it's best. The staff is welcoming and warm, attentive to all your requests. The junior suite was perfect, with a coffee and tea corner, to relax and watch TV. Breakfast menu is sumptuous, with excellent variety. We had dinner twice (out of 3 days!) and it was a delight.

The neighbourhood

Local points of interest from Sasha Ibbotson

Byland Abbey - an English Heritage ruin only ten minutes from away. Drive through beautiful Coxwold, past Newburgh Priory with ornate topiary hedges & beautiful houses on either side of the road. The ruins are absolutely stunning, with the old inn opposite

Castle Howard - think 'Brideshead Revisited'...for those who are familiar with the television drama - otherwise notably an iconic country house complete with follies, fountains, lakes and an adventure playground. Also, farmshop and garden nursery.

Historic York - so much to see and do for all ages. Yorvic, the Minster, the old City Walls, ghost walks, Medieval Banqueting Halls; The National Railway Museum (free of charge) Betty's team rooms; River boat tours. Lots of independent shops & galleries

Georgian Market Town of Easingwold. This bustling local town has a weekly Friday market. Also Farmer's market...shops, tea rooms, antique shops.... The wonderful Sugar Mouse for buying penny sweets by weight....or country outfitters Charles Hobson.

National Trust properties are plentiful so if you're a member there are plenty of places to visit for free. Nunnington Hall, Beninborough Hall, Rievaulx Terrace, Treasurer's House York, Goddard's House York, Fountains Abbey & Studely Royal among others

White Horse - Sutton Bank - great walks, great views and gliders for those who feel a little bit more daredevil! You'll spot it from all different vantage points while you're driving around the area...but it's best seen up close...and there's a great walk.